The Marco Island Academy football team received a loss on the road against Miami-Solid Rock Christian, losing 44-6 on Friday night.

"Their team was a little bigger and faster, with most of their players being 11th- and 12th-graders, and it showed," MIA coach Andy Delgado said.

Losing 44-0 in the fourth quarter, the Manta Rays didn't give up. The Rays were pushed around all game until quarterback Jared Jackson led a 65-yard drive that ended in a rushing touchdown by Jackson.

"We don't bow down to any challenge," Delgado said. "We come in with a game plan and we try to execute. Unfortunately, we had some mistakes in the first half and they capitalized."

The Manta Rays had a total of 147 yards rushing, with Jackson contributing to most of that. On defense, he sacked the Eagles quarterback once. Running back Nicholas Dotson contributed with 16 rushing yards.

"I was very proud of the kids, they never quit. I am so proud of these boys for playing at such a high level. The score is not indicative of the effort that these kids made tonight."

The Manta Rays close their first-ever season at Class 2A-District 6 champion First Baptist next Friday.